Nick Kyrgios isn’t simply locked in to play the Australian Open, he’s going to heat up with a showdown in opposition to nine-time champ Novak Djokovic.
Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley confirmed Kyrgios, who has been battling an ankle harm, would tackle Djokovic this Friday night time in an exhibition match “extravaganza”.
Tickets can be bought for the match, which might pack out Rod Laver Arena, with all proceeds going to charity.
The pair squared off within the 2022 Wimbledon last, gained by Djokovic, who revealed a passion for Kyrgios resulting from his help of the Serbian throughout final yr’s deportation drama.
Tiley, who made the announcement on Monday morning, has been in communication with Kyrgios’ group and been given assurances the Australian, who dropped out of the United Cup on the final minute, can be able to go.
Friday’s match will even be Djokovic’s first at Melbourne Park since he was compelled out of final yr’s event and deported amid a Covid vaccination saga.
After profitable the Adelaide International on Sunday, Djokovic declared he held “no grudges” over final yr’s saga and had acquired nothing however love since his arrival in Australia.
Tiley has repeatedly mentioned he was assured there can be no backlash as soon as Djokovic arrives in Melbourne and reiterated that on Monday, assured his return on Friday night time can be celebrated.
“He really enjoyed the experience in South Australia and he was welcomed … he loved it there,” Tiley mentioned.
“I love that our fans are sporting fans and are among the most educated and appreciate greatness. They appreciate players like Novak that have won this event nine times.
“Novak is back and I’m pretty confident that the Melbourne fans – similar to the experience he had in Adelaide – will be just as good.”
